Note: Post updated February 27, 2011, to include information about US$100,000 LCIF major catastrophe grant.

Yesterday, a powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake devastated Christchurch, New Zealand, killing at least 65, injuring hundreds more and leaving thousands homeless. As always, Lions and LCIF are bringing aid to the people affected by this disaster.

(AP Photo/New Zealand Herald, Mark Mitchell)

LCIF is in close communication with Lions in District 202 E, and has approved an initial emergency grant of US$10,000 and awarded a US$100,000 major catastrophe grant for longer term relief efforts. Local Lions also responded to this crisis by distributing large supplies of bottled water throughout Christchurch and the surrounding suburbs. In addition to providing potable water, District Governor Raewyn Clearwater and her Cabinet have released US$40,000 to help provide food to the Civil Defence Welfare Centres that are serving the displaced.